Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Mini i both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is praised for its crisp, light tactility and marbley sound profile, providing a clacky and resonant typing experience perfect for those who enjoy a bouncy and polished feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switches are known for their subtle tactility and muted sound profile, making them an excellent choice for office settings where a quiet but satisfying typing experience is desired. Both switches offer a snappy response and easy-to-press keys, but the Baby Kangaroo (V2) leans towards a more vibrant typing experience, while the Mini i focuses on a more subdued feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Mini i, it is clear that they both make use of nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. However, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) differs with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in comparison to the Mini i's nylon top housing. This variation in top housing material results in a difference in sound quality between the two switches, with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) emphasizing clarity and resonance while the Mini i focuses on creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Mini i share the use of nylon for their bottom housings. This consistent choice of material results in a similar typing experience for both switches, with a continued emphasis on a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the impact of the housing material varies depending on whether it is the bottom or top housing. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This distinction showcases how different housing materials can impact different aspects of the typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Mini i share similarities in utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, they diverge in their choice of top housing material. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) opts for polycarbonate, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Mini i sticks with nylon for a deeper and fuller sound. These differences highlight how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with each switch offering a unique sound profile based on its housing materials. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound will determine which switch is the ideal choice for your typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, a noticeable difference is evident. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Mini i features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, offering a lighter typing experience. This makes the Mini i more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for typing over long periods of time, while the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is better suited for individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference in terms of typing force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to other switches on the market, which may result in quicker typing speeds and a more responsive feel. Overall, the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is the same, providing a consistent typing experience for users of either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Baby Kangaroo (V2) for $5.50.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch offers a unique experience with a clacky and marbly sound profile, characterized by sharp and snappy sounds along with resonant, high-pitched tones. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various environments due to its moderate actuation force requirement. Both switches deliver distinct auditory experiences, allowing users to choose based on their preference for either a lively and resonant sound like the Baby Kangaroo (V2) or a more subdued and versatile sound like the Mini i.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is described as snappy, bouncy, and polished, offering a responsive and smooth typing experience with a lively feedback sensation. Conversely, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is characterized by a bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped feel, providing a gentle resistance with light actuation force that enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended use. Both switches excel in delivering a tactile typing experience tailored to the user's needs, whether they prefer a more responsive and lively feel like the Baby Kangaroo (V2) or a gentle and easy-to-press feel like the Mini i.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) provides a more pronounced and lively experience both in sound and feel, the Mini i offers a more versatile and user-friendly option suitable for various environments, including office settings. Regardless of choice, both switches promise a satisfying tactile typing experience with their unique characteristics, allowing users to personalize their keyboard setup based on their preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a crisp, light switch-like tactility and a distinctive marbly sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force with a fairly muted sound profile that still offers gentle tactility and a subtle typing experience, then the Mini i may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing preference and the environment in which you'll be using the switches.
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